The 30p all-natural item that banishes ants from garden patios

As the summer comes to an end, antsare becoming more common in UK patios and driveways. Though they appear harmless, problems can occur when they nest between seams and under concrete slabs.

Paving experts fromthe Reclaimed Brick Companyhave stated that ignoring the problem may lead to loose joints, uneven slabs, and the growth of weeds and moss between pavement blocks. Ants disturb the layer of sand that keeps pavingstable, creating gaps that let in water, moss and dirt, and resulting in an uneven surface that becomes harder to clean and expensive to fix. The paving specialists have shared a low-cost way to keep the insects at bay, and it costs just 30p in most supermarkets. Spreading the skins of citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, or grapefruits around the edges of your patio is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to deter ants. The acidity and strong smell confuse their scent trails, making it harder for them to find their way to food or nesting sites.

For an extra boost, boil the peels in water, let the mixture cool, and spray it directly into the cracks between slabs. The scent lingers for days and is safe for pets, plants, and children.

Ants also dislike the scent of certain herbs, making them a natural and effective repellent. Lavender, mint, rosemary, and basil all have strong aromas that interfere with ants' navigation.

Other options such as thyme, eucalyptus and lemongrass work just as well. Homeowners can plant these herbs in pots near the patio's edge, along driveways, or even between slabs where sunlight reaches.

If ants have already made their nest under your patio, there are still ways to deal with them. Pouring boiling water directly into visible holes or cracks can disrupt the nest and push colonies to relocate.

Repeat the process for several days for better results. For extra control, sprinkle baking soda along the lines between slabs before rinsing it away with hot water. This natural method breaks down trails without using harsh chemicals.

To prevent ants from returning, it's important to maintain the joints that hold your patio together. Re-sand regularly, seal gaps early, keep slabs clean, and avoid overwatering.

A spokesperson for Reclaimed Brick Company said many homeowners are unaware of how quickly ants can damage a patio. "By the time people notice the small piles of sand around their slabs, the ants have often already disturbed the bedding underneath.

"That can make the patio uneven and allow weeds to grow faster. A few minutes of maintenance can save hundreds in repairs later."